Taste: Bisque

Dec. 26, 2012

Lobster bisque at Charlotte's in North Liberty is seen on Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2012. / David Scrivner / Iowa City Press-Citizen

With flurries flying outside and the holidays still upon us, let local restaurants do the work while you relax and tuck in to a bowl of warm, creamy bisque. Versions of the French soup are so good at these local restaurants, you’re sure to be devastated if anyone says “no soup for you.”

Charlotte's

745 Community Drive, North Liberty

Info: 626-2295

The creamy Lobster Bisque ($3.99 to $6.99) at Charlotte’s has a bit of following. The small North Liberty restaurant goes through about 50 gallons of their lobster bisque each week. “It’s definitely become our number one seller,” owner Charlotte Nielson said. “I’ve had people come from Clinton, Iowa — 110 miles — to try some.” And with a rich, creamy texture, large chunks of succulent lobster meat and a hint of sherry, it’s hard to argue that Charlotte’s bisque is anything less than perfection.

Atlas

127 Iowa Ave. Iowa City

Info: 341-7700

When you order the Tomato Bisque ($3 to $5) at Atlas, you get more than a soup, you get a knee-buckling good blend of creamy tomato soup garnished with pesto, croutons and basil. Easily paired with an entree or enjoyed on it’s own, the bisque in a no-fail palate-pleaser.

Z'mariks Noodle Cafe

19 S. Dubuque St., Iowa City

Info: 338-5500

Need something quick to eat that will also warm you up from the inside out? Go for a bowl of Z’mariks’ hearty Z’roasted Tomato & Red Pepper Bisque ( $.299 to $3.99) on your next excursion in downtown Iowa City for a delicious, smooth blend of roasted tomatoes and red bell peppers. We’ll meet you there.